CNP CN block programs total consolidated

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education $46.629 million under the National School Lunch Program on October 1, 2025, for the period ending September 30, 2026. The funding supports the provision of nutritionally balanced, low-cost or no-cost lunches to school children throughout Rhode Island, delivered through public and nonprofit private schools and residential child care institutions that participate in the program. RI DESE, as the state agency, reviews written applications from school food authorities and institutions, determines eligibility, and executes written participation agreements. Participating schools receive cash subsidies and USDA Foods for each reimbursable meal served and must maintain records of their nonprofit food service operations for state review. Schools must serve lunches meeting Federal meal pattern requirements and offer meals at free or reduced price to eligible children. The National School Lunch Program is a permanent, federally assisted meal program operating in all states and territories through federal-state agreements.